HL Deb 20 December 1983 vol 446 cc708-9WA
Lord Inglewood

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What encouragement is given to fit members of the Metropolitan Security Corps within the Palace of Westminster to accept the obligations of a special constable, so relieving the pressure on the large establishment of regular police officers who could otherwise be available for duties outside the Palace.

Lord Elton

Special constables act as a voluntary, unpaid police reserve, not as a substitute for full-time regular police officers. It is open to members of the security staff at the Palace of Westminster to apply to join the special constabulary if they wish and are qualified to do so. However, the duties of the security staff are not the same as those of police officers. Their enrolment as special constables would not affect their responsibilities as security officers or, in view of the importance of security at the Palace of Westminster, reduce the need for regular police coverage.